Dark Night Skies

In May 2016 the South Downs National Park became the world’s 13th International Dark Sky Reserve (IDSR).  We think our star-studded skies overhead are as valuable as our beautiful rolling...

Here are some top tips to help you make the most of stargazing in the South Downs: Check the phase of the moon to plan your trip – stargazing is...

The South Downs Dark Skies Festival is back for 2025. Running between Thursday 13 to Sunday 23 February, the festival will feature a host of events. 2025's theme is “Glimmers.” ...

Help your school community learn about, love and look after our dark night skies by hosting your very own Star Party. A star party can be a standalone activity, used...

Below are a few helpful tips to follow if photographing the night skies for the first time. Remember, like most art forms, astrophotography takes alot of practice and patience: Use...

The South Downs National Park is the second IDSR in England and one of only 16 in the world. With 2.2 million people living within 10km of the National Park our reserve...

The South Downs Astrophotography Competition is back for 2024/25. Entries open on Monday 4 November.  This year photographers have the chance of winning up to £100 for a breathtaking image...

The following document provides design guidance and wider considerations for lighting events, creative (artistic) commissions and lighting festivals. The guidance provides information on the main threats of these types of...